Overall strong performance keeps Michigan in Big Ten title hunt

David Berding-USA TODAY SportsThere are no gimmes in Big Ten play, but Thursday’s contest against Minnesota was a game Michigan could not afford to lose. The Wolverines kept pace in the conference race by looking sharp on both ends of the floor, albeit with a few dry spells toward the end of each half. The Gophers may not be the toughest competition, but it was a strong win on the road for the Maize and Blue.

27 games into the season, this team’s identity is fairly defined, but never rule out the progression of a team coached by John Beilein. Case in point, both Colin Castleton and David DeJulius made an appearance against Minnesota. While neither freshman had too large of an impact, it is…